Madame X: A Scandalous Portrait That Redefined Fashion and Femininity in Art.

John Singer Sargent's Portrait of Madame X (1884) is a defining artwork of the Belle Époque, known for its bold depiction of fashion and defiance of societal norms. The sleek black gown and confident posture of Madame Gautreau, a Parisian socialite, sparked controversy for its provocative nature, challenging traditional views on femininity. Despite the initial backlash, the painting is now celebrated as a symbol of modernity, illustrating how fashion and art can reshape cultural expectations.